The spread is part of the publication’s rookie issue, showcasing the league’s top first-year players up to this point in the season, with the headline that reads: “The awesome stories behind the NHL’s new big things.”

In all actuality, Conacher is not big at all, at least in stature, as he stands just 5-foot-8. His game, however, seems to fit the description perfectly.

GONE, BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

Syracuse Crunch head coach Jon Cooper may not have certain players with him in the American Hockey League at the moment, but that doesn’t mean he is out of touch with what’s going on regarding his former pupils who are currently with the big club in Tampa Bay.

I would guess Cooper regularly keeps in touch with the guys by dialing in a weekly phone call or two, but if one thing is for sure, and it is that he frequently gives each individual a special shout-out every time the player achieves a special milestone with the Lightning.

“Panik Attack’s 1st National League goal is a game-winning to energize the Battling Bolts. Congrats, doing us proud!”

And this one, although not to a former Crunch player, but rather to New York Rangers prospect and the son of Lightning player development coach Steve Thomas:

“Congrats on 1st National League game, awesome! Where's the Stump sweeper? Saw the 2 on your stat line and got excited. #MixInAPIM”

That Jon Cooper. What a guy, huh?

STARSTRUCK

Speaking of Lightning rookies, it seems that Cory Conacher had quite a week.

Not only did he land the cover of this week’s issue of The Hockey News, but he also had the opportunity to pose for a picture with former New York Rangers defenseman and Hockey Hall-Of-Famer Brian Leetch.